Re:Verse passage – 1 Corinthians 16:15–18; Acts 18:1–8; 11:22–26
(day two)
I rejoice over the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus, because they have supplied what was lacking on your part.
Out of context, this looks like a pretty dismissive verse. In light of our study on discipleship, this takes on a different dimension. Paul wasn’t trying to highlight where the church was failing; he was helping them acknowledge where they could grow. Do you see the difference? We all have growth areas in every part of our lives, and especially our faith walk. We would do well to hear this encouragement from Paul to rejoice when others can help you grow. This is the heart of discipleship. The Lord wants to refine you. Our tendency, especially as adults, is to feel like we have somehow arrived developmentally. After all, we spend so much time in school, building a career, in relationships – at some point we want to feel like we’ve got it figured out. In truth each of those areas requires constant adjustment and refinement. Our walk with the Lord is a series of becoming more like him each day, and that means allowing others to help you where you are weak.
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I have found that KEY to this happening is an open heart and mind, and a willingness to be taught. GOD continues to speak even as we grow older if we listen.
ACTS 11: 22. The news about them reached the ears of the church at Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas off to Antioch. 23. Then when he arrived and witnessed the grace of God, he rejoiced and began to encourage them all with resolute heart to remain true to the Lord;
We should continually encourage each other to remain True to the Lord.
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”